NOAA Taps OSU's Rick Spinrad

Oregon State University’s Vice President of Research, Rick Spinrad, has been selected to become the next chief scientist at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). He’ll be the go-to advisor to NOAA chief Kathryn Sullivan on issues relating to science. It also means he’ll be responsible for informing members of Congress on the latest research on climate change and other issues.

The position of chief scientist at NOAA has not been filled for nearly two decades. The last time there was a nominee, the position required confirmation by the U.S. Senate, and the process dragged on for two years before the nominee, Scott Doney, withdrew his name. Due to a change in Senate rules, Spinrad will not need confirmation.